Monday, May 19, 2008

Prairie Paisley Project

I just have a quick post for you tonight because it's kinda late--I've been playing in the Sweat Shop, trying to get a top finished.

Remember this from the other day? I mentioned I had bought this little Schnibbles pattern and two charm packs of the Prairie Paisley fabric. The Schnibbles pattern sample actually uses the Prairie Paisley line, so it's a perfect "fit"!


When I started cutting and making the star blocks, I found that I could just squeeze out 13 star blocks instead of the 9 called for in the pattern. In other words, I could make a larger quilt top using a diagonal set with 13 center blocks. I did have to cheat a little and use one 5" square of the red with white polka dot fabric from the Mary Engelbreit line--I thought the reds matched pretty well. I also had to add more neutral fabrics than was called for in the pattern. I think the pattern called for 1/3 yard to be used in the star backgrounds. I needed about another 1/2 yard for the setting triangles (what I used was from the Christmas Past line by the same designers) and then I also added another fat quarter and about a 1/2 yard for the outside border because I wanted that to be wider than the pattern. So, anyway, here's how mine turned out--it measures around 46" square instead of the original 30" square:


(By the way, if you're making a quilt top from this pattern, take a look at the cutting directions for the blue fabric to make the star blocks. Instead of cutting the charms in 2" strips and then cutting those 3-1/2" long, cut a 1-1/2" strip first and add it to the pile for the blue inner border strips. Then cut the remaining 3-1/2" pieces into rectangles that measure 2" x 3-1/2"--that should eliminate some of the waste.)

I've enjoyed working with this fabric--something about it reminds me of summer days, those old-fashioned red and white or blue and white handkerchiefs, and picnics. I guess what I'm trying to say is that it somehow evokes memories of childhood summers. I know the line is wildly popular--have you made anything from it yet?

21 comments:

Carol said...

Kim I love what you did with the pattern...great idea!

Anne Marie said...

I love that fabric, I bought the Moda University quilt kit and have been itching to start. I am trying to use up all my Allspice fabric with a friend on 3 Quilts - she and I are a bit loco!!!!

Good to see you're feeling better!

Unknown said...

You do it everytime. Always something a little different. Neat fabric and really cute disign. Much better than the pattern.

Carol said...

I have this pattern but haven't made the quilt yet and I have prairie paisley fabric that I haven't decided what to make with yet, you've inspired me once again. I love the blocks set on point.

Carol L.

Anonymous said...

WOW WOW WOW You just keep getting better and better, Would you please be my mentor. Sharon Mac

SuBee said...

Holy C..ow!!! Another top done already? I am a miserable, under-achieving, sniveling excuse for a quilter and YOU are the quilting GODDESS!! This is great - and it does look like an old fashioned summer quilt. Table topper, with a pitcher of lemonade and plate of cookies - ummmm......

Lisa D. said...

Your quilt is wonderful! I love the Prairie Paisley fabrics!

Darlene said...

I love it - great idea! Here it comes.............are you ready..........can I have it????? LOL

Wait, wait I already have a quilt finished with this great line of fabric. But, it would be great if your cute quilt would come visit my cute quilt for a lllllllllllllloooooooooooooonnnnnnnnnnnnnnngggggggggggggggg time. OK?????

MARCIE said...

You need your own pattern company, maybe called "RE-DO", (I was going to write it in french but can't). So often you take a pattern and expand on it. I LOVE this!

May Kristin said...

Your quilt is absolutely gorgeous!
And I love "blocks on point" quilts!

Karen said...

Love, love, love the Prairie Paisley line.

Glad you figured out a way to have less waste with the charm squares. I always appreciate a pattern designer who is efficient!

MichelleB said...

The top came out wonderful! Love the fabric. And your points are divine! How do you make such perfect points?

Rhonda said...

The quilt top is beautiful! I love the stars on points!

Anonymous said...

Wow, that is so pretty, and you finished it so quickly! I love the way you put it on point and the fabric choice.

Busy Little Quilter said...

It's beautiful! I love how you change the patterns and make them your own.

So, what are you planning to make with the fabrics that you are desperately wanting to win over at Sharon's? :)

You might not be taller than me and may have to put fat quarters on your head to get as tall as me, but I would have to stuff the fat quarters to get my boobs as big as yours! ROFL

(For those who haven't seen her last self portrait, go to the February 27, 2008 post). ROFL

DPUTiger said...

I'm gonna have to mark this post since I know I'll make this pattern. Looks great! Wonder what fabric I'll use. Hmmm ... :)

Anonymous said...

Yes definitely a quilting goddess !!! I have that pattern and charm packs sitting here, I love what you have done with it.

Red Geranium Cottage said...

Kim, I love that quilt. Beautiful!!!!!

Mad about Craft said...

Lovely!!!

I hope my Hemming House turns out half as well.

Anonymous said...

I am in LOVE with Prairie Paisley. I waited anxiously for it to be released by Moda, and then had to drive 2 hours to the closest store that was carrying it! I bought the layer cake, charm packs, jelly roll, random yardage, and even for a large backing. Guess I'm waiting to see what new layer cake patterns were released at market to see which one I want to use. BTW, your blog always inspires me. Wendy in Iowa

Nan said...

Halloooooo Kim! I am absolutely loving what you did with that gorgeous fabric and that pattern - you have talent oozing out from every pore of your body, I think! I don't have any of that fabric, but now I must get some, mustn't I? Yes indeedy!
I missed you being ill (I'm so glad you're better now), a giveaway (rats!), and the creation of your patriotic quilt top (be-you-teeful!).
Thank you for all the inspiration you provide (almost) every day, Kim!